Breaking: ECW Legend Sabu Dies at 59

Former professional wrestler Sabu, known for his high-risk style and hardcore matches that helped define the extreme wrestling era of the 1990s, has died. He was 59.

The death was announced by family members on social media and first reported on May 11, 2025. No cause of death was immediately given.

Born Terry Brunk, Sabu gained international fame through his time in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where his daredevil tactics, barbed wire matches, and brutal feuds made him one of the promotion’s most iconic figures. The nephew of wrestling legend The Sheik, Sabu was trained in the brutal, brawling style that became his trademark.

He also had stints in WWE, TNA Wrestling, and promotions in Japan and Mexico, earning a reputation as a fearless and innovative performer. Despite chronic injuries throughout his career, he remained active in wrestling into his 50s.

Sabu’s final match took place on April 18, 2025, at Game Changer Wrestling’s Spring Break 9 event in Las Vegas, where he faced Joey Janela in a barbed wire rope match. The bout was promoted as a special attraction and marked his farewell to in-ring competition.

Sabu’s influence is still seen in the hardcore wrestling style that persists on the independent scene and in major promotions. He was a former ECW World Heavyweight Champion and held numerous titles throughout his career.

Funeral arrangements have not been announced.

Sources: PWInsider, Fightful, Wrestling Observer Newsletter, eWrestlingNews, WWF Old School